Dalmatian Sets New Record For Largest Litter With Astounding 18 Puppies

By Nicola Rossi, Published on Jul 8, 2017

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The birth of Dalmatian puppies is, in itself, worthy of a huge celebration but when it is the largest litter on record to be delivered, there are 18 special reasons to mark the occasion. When Miley the Dalmatian gave birth to her puppies on May 18, she broke an Australian record, which even surpassed Perdita’s achievement in the classic and well-loved Disney film 101 Dalmatians.

Cecilia Langton-Bunker, the dog breeder responsible for facilitating the birth, was shocked at such a large litter, not just because it broke records but mainly because scans throughout Miley’s pregnancy had shown that she was expecting far fewer puppies. Some would say these are Miley’s Miracle babies.

Ms Langton-Bunker said, “The ultrasound said [Miley was] going to have three puppies. We got to 16 and thought she was done. After 13-and-a-half hours of labor, it was quite amazing; she popped out another two.” Although having so many many puppies on her hands may seem like a burden to many Ms. Langton-Bunker is absolutely elated. Ms Langton-Bunker said she “couldn’t be happier with the litter” and described the births of the pups as “absolutely superb.”

As for the dad of the newborn Dalmations, Astro, he is a first-time parent alongside Miley. Ms. Langton-Baker joked, “He’s a bit disconcerted by the 18 puppies running around, he’s like ‘are these all mine’.” On Tuesday the puppies were brought to Ballarat Veterinary Practice in the Victorian regional city where they were born where they were vaccinated and microchipped.

Ms. Langton-Baker told one news source that, “The litter has been very inspirational to watch growing up and a great credit goes to Jade Martin, a midwife who has nurtured the puppies.” She also added that the hand-reared puppies were thriving thanks to their doting parents.